The Hard Road Trio - Southwestern Bluegrass

The Hard Road Trio took the long road to get to a place where their music feels at home playing their original Southwestern acoustic blend of Bluegrass and original music from the wide-open spaces of New Mexico. The Hard Road Trio -- mandolinist Steve Smith, guitarist/vocalist Chris Sanders and bassist Anne Luna -- is the amalgamation of three songwriters who have found their collective voice in the light and air of the Southwest. In the couple of months since the release radio stations across the nation have let their listeners know and the press has applauded. (http://hardroadtrio.com) This week they are playing at the IBMA conference then onto the Wild West from there.

The Hard Road Trio channeled their energy and captured their authentic sound on their new recording, Monticello. "We set up and recorded so much of this material live," says Smith. "It breathes." That live connection is captured in full force on their latest release. It has been hailed for its honesty and power by folk icon Tom Russell saying, "This fine CD reminds me of the raw and colorful beauty of the New Mexico landscape."

Together, The Trio writes crisp, soothing ("Best of Intentions") and personal ("Family Secrets") songs filled with clever melodies ("Honeymoon From..."), and throughout peaceful harmonies - music steeped in folk classicism that shows its live appeal in every telling verse. Monticello includes guest appearances by Michael Witcher, Nate Lee, Tim May, Bill Evans and co-producer James McLaughlin.

The album is Hard Road's fourth and the first to include bassist Luna, who has helped steer the group's path and bring their live energy into the studio. Luna also contributed the song "Break Free," which, with its slinky jazz bass line and breathy vocals, brings a darker edge to the disc. Come out to enjoy their show!